Before evolving this podcast, holding space for inviting guests, and diving deeper into Redefining Fitness, I knew I needed to finally be open in sharing about the most integral, formative piece of my personal story: my exodus from the Mormon church,  and the complete identity loss that ensued. For years and years, even just to think of it, the pressure in my chest would build like an iron grip, squeezing my heart from deep inside of me— a daunting reminder of my ever-present anxiety and a long-forgotten fairytale reality.Yet I now know, to become who I truly am, I had to fully let go of the woman I thought I was supposed to be.I am no longer ashamed of the trauma I hold— I stand proud of the ways I chose to pick up the pieces and shape this new me.  Words still feel inadequate— but I now know the power of speaking your truth vulnerably, however imperfectly.I am still afraid— but I now make a cognizant choice to not let my fears control me.And somehow I know, now is finally the time to share my truth, unapologetically.